Leading British economist Martin Weale defended his profession
from a recent wave of criticism, saying that economic forecasts
are necessary but "simply the best you can do."

The former Bank of England interest rate setter has also aligned
himself with prominent economic institutions by predicting a
squeeze on pay and spending next year as inflation bites.

Pro-Brexit papers such as the Daily Mail and Daily Express and
politicians, such as former education secretary Michael Gove and
leading Tory backbencher Jacob Rees-Mogg, have all heavily
criticised economists in recent weeks for what they see as overly
pessimistic Brexit forecasts both before and since the vote.